Safe Hiking During Hunting Season

Hike safely during hunting season in Hamilton County

About to embark on a fall hike? Great! While the trails are extra beautiful this time of year, it’s important to be aware of who you’re sharing the trails with. During our most colorful transition period in the Adirondacks, hunting season also takes place across the regions. When it comes to enjoying nature during hunting season, safety is paramount. We've got you covered with essential tips and information that will ensure your hikes are peaceful and risk-free.

Hiking during hunting season safety tips 

The well-being of both hikers and hunters depends on everyone recreating safely. This time of year brings unique challenges and risks that require careful consideration and adherence to safety measures. Here's what to know before you go: 

  • Know the season: Be aware of hunting seasons and regulations in your area.

  • Wear bright colors: Dress in blaze orange or other highly visible colors to be seen by hunters.

  • Stay on trails: Stick to established hiking trails to avoid wandering into hunting zones.

  • Make noise: Be vocal and use a bell or whistle to alert hunters to your presence.

  • Avoid dusk/dawn: Hike during daylight hours and avoid early morning or late evening when hunting is more common.

  • Pets leashed: Keep pets on a leash and in bright colors.

  • Communication: Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.

  • Respect hunters: Be courteous to hunters you encounter and avoid disrupting their activities.

  • Research: Check local hunting maps and websites for specific rules and areas to avoid.

Hikers and hunters alike can enjoy the Hamilton County trails together! Being aware of who you’re sharing the trails with can keep everyone safe and on their merry way to exploring the region with ease. Explore nature with confidence, knowing you have the knowledge and resources to stay safe during hunting season. For more information on safe hiking, visit our hiking page.

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(518) 648-5212

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5186485212
6123 NYS rte 28
Indian Lake, NY 12842
A true Adirondack Country Store, Pines has nearly everything you might need. Adirondack gifts, t-shirts, candles, camping gear, fishing gear, household supplies and more!
Inlet Department Store

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(315) 357-3636

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3153573636
167 Route 28 PO Box 537
Inlet, NY 13360
Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812
Cascade and Stephens ponds are two beautiful gems in the Blue Ridge Wilderness. In any season, you'll find peaceful forests and pristine waters. If you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of an otter; they've been known to frequent these parts.
Cascade Pond
Inlet, NY 13360
The trail to Sis and Bubb lakes, located in the Fulton Chain Wild Forest, is very pleasant, with stunning views awaiting those who take this short walk.
The view of a pine tree lined lake.
Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812
Barker Pond isn't frequently visited, offering those who do hike here a chance to find solitude. Chances are your only company will be wildlife.
The view of a small pond surrounded by trees.
Moose River Plains Wild Forest
Inlet, NY 13360
Located in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest off of Rock Dam Road, this access offers good, low-country hunting around the backside of Mount Tom.
A hiker's boots in the mud
Raquette Lake, NY 13436
This interesting loop around Sagamore Lake starts and ends at the Great Camp Sagamore. Many of the trails around the Great Camp are open to the public.
A skier glides through open woods
Wells, NY 12190
This hike is along an old forest road. The old road weaves in and out, and crosses Robbs Creek several times while working its way over rolling hills to the Siamese Ponds Wilderness Area.
A stream flowing through chunky rocks.
Raquette Lake, NY 13436
This trail to Lower Sargent Pond is only accessible by boat via the Tioga Point State Campground. It's a unique adventure to a pretty destination.
A lake during a hazy sunset.
Chain Lakes Road South
Indian Lake, NY 12842
Chain Lakes Road South allows access to a network of dirt roads and trails in parts of the Blue Mountain Wild Forest, Pine Lake Primitive Area, and Hudson Gorge Wilderness Area.
Many lovely pond views along the hiking trails.
Newcomb, NY 12852
The High Peaks Wilderness Area is the largest Wilderness Area in the Adirondack Mountains and New York state.
Aerial fall view of a complex of ponds among mountains
Route 8/30
Speculator, NY 12164
This quick hike to Auger Falls along the Sacandaga River is sure to please any member of the family. Remember to be cautious on the steeper slopes near the falls. Take a short trip just to see the falls or go for a longer loop hike around the area.
Two males hiking with Auger Falls' spring run behind them
Piseco, NY 12139
Echo Cliff on Panther Mountain is a popular hike near Piseco, NY. It offers well-worn trails and occasional steep sections, making it great for beginners looking for a short challenge.
People at an overlook on a cliff with a view of the water
Moose River Plains Wild Forest
Inlet, NY 13360
The Moose River Plains Wild Forest is part of the 80,000 acre Moose River Plains Complex, a collection of public lands crossed by more than 40 miles of old dirt logging roads.
Trail sign for Cathedral Pines
Lake Pleasant, NY 12108
The Nature Trail (aka the Adirondack Eco Trail) at the Hamilton County Building Complex in Lake Pleasant is a well-maintained, multi-use trail system. 
Close up of a hiker's boots
Hope, NY 12134
Enjoy the approximately three miles of marked trails at Hope Center Trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Take a break at one of the 3 park benches and enjoy the scenery. 
A nice trail at Hope Center Trails.
South Sabattis Road, County Route 10
Long Lake, NY 12847
In 1933, a fire tower on Buck Mountain was established on private lands between Long Lake and Tupper Lake.
From the tower cab on Buck Mountain looking toward Little Tupper Lake.
New York State Route 10
Arietta, NY ‎12139
A level walk on a marked trail leads to Good Luck Lake, followed by another level stretch that leads to a final steep ascent of Good Luck Cliffs. This final stretch is one of the toughst hike in the southern Adirondacks.
Hiking boots in the mud.